Routine Maintenance for Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Sprinkler Systems need routine maintenance

The fire sprinkler system has several components, such as a source of water, pipes that carry the water, and several sprinkler heads. When heat or smoke triggers the system, water is automatically discharged over a specific area. Thus, the system acts as both a detector and a suppressor. This only happens, however, when the sprinkler has been maintained properly and is ready to go.

Maintenance Routine for Fire Sprinkler Systems

Inspection and Maintenance Standards

The National Fire Protection Association provides guidelines to guide the maintenance and care of fire sprinkler systems. These are grouped under the heading HFPA 25 and cover the following areas:

• Inspections
  
• Maintenance
  
• Testing
  

Facility management teams should look these standards up and become familiar with them. With knowledge of the maintenance steps, it is possible to avoid damage and malfunctions.

Weekly Visual Inspections

The weekly inspections shouldn't take long, and they don't often require any tools:

• Inspect the gauges by reading the water pressure and air indicators. These should be within the normal range as suggested by the NFPA standards and system manufacturer.
  
• Start your visual inspection of control valves by reading the signage and then checking for leaks.
  
• Verify that the valves are locked, sealed, and set in the open position.
  

Monthly Inspections and Tasks

Monthly inspections for your fire suppression system may vary a bit depending on which types of system is installed in your Bountiful, UT, facility:

• The gauges on wet pipe systems must be checked for proper levels of water pressure.
  
• Alarm valves must be inspected for damage.
  
• Review the fire safety plan for the facility and ensure that signs are posted and easily seen.
  

Quarterly Maintenance and Inspections

On a quarterly basis, in addition to completing weekly and monthly tasks, it's important to complete the following checks:

• Make sure alarm devices aren't damaged.
  
• Test alarm devices to be sure they function properly.
  
• Make sure the hydraulic nameplate is secure, and the information is legible.
  

Damage Prevention

Fire sprinkler systems are effective at detecting fires and putting them out before your Bountiful, UT, buildings suffer expensive damage. When damage does occur, reach out to fire sprinkler cleanup professionals.